Members are advised that there are now significant and increased fines which may be imposed on a vessel which contravenes Turkish anti-pollution regulations. By way of background, Members will be aware of the particularly sensitive area of the Turkish straits, which present a challenge for navigation and the potential for a major accident is significant unless due care is taken. The Bosporus is 17 miles long, at times very narrow and with winding waterways that cut through Istanbul, one of the most densely populated cities in the world. Amongst the major straits of the world, it is amongst the narrowest, constricting to a mere 698 meters between shores at a point. If an accident happen were to happen in this area, speed of response would be paramount. In order to ensure that the appropriate response is put in place, and to ensure the right resources are brought in to deal with any pollution incident, the Association urges Members to notify any incident without delay. Equally Masters are reminded that immediate assistance from local Correspondents should be sought, even if the incident is minor, as a small spill can still have significant consequences. For smaller incidents, and especially grey water pollution which our Correspondents see most often, local authorities stringently monitor sensitive areas, including sending out patrols with small crafts both day and night. Should a pollution incident, even a small one, be spotted then stringent action will quickly be taken by local authorities. Even an innocent member can suffer delays. If a ship has not been involved in a pollution incident but happens to be in an area close to other ship(s) and the source of pollution has not been identified, that may lead to so fuel/ballast water etc samples to be taken from all ships for analysis. All vessels having to await the outcome and identification of the infringing party. Once an offence has been established and the source identified, the vessel will be fined. There are sev